Creating a realistic character is one of the most difficult challenges in writing a piece of fiction. We've all read stories in which the characters were dull or hollow; they come across like clones of the same characters we've met in dozens of stories before. Readers...

We can classify most poetry into two groups: form poetry and free verse. Free verse is a style of poetry that doesn't adhere to any structure; the poet is free to write lines and stanzas of varying lengths and meter, with or without rhymes. Form poetry, on the other...

Occasionally, we come across the abbreviations i.e. and e.g., but what do they mean, and what is the difference between them? How do grammar rules apply? These two terms originate in the Latin language and are just two of the many Latin phrases that have survived into...

People often ask me whether I think a formal education is necessary to a successful writing career. A degree certainly helps, but no, it's not necessary. There are master writers who did not finish high school and plenty never went to college. I want to be clear: I...

Success!

101 Creative Writing Exercises

You’ll discover tools and techniques that will improve your writing through fun yet practical projects that you can submit and publish. 101 Creative Writing Exercises gives you plenty of practice and fresh ideas.

10 Core Practices for Better Writing

Each of the ten practices presented in this book strengthen your writing skills and promote excellence. By adopting these simple but effective writing practices, you will master the craft of writing. All it takes is dedication and self-discipline.

10 Core Practices for Better Writing is ideal for writing groups, classes, and workshops as well as individuals who want to improve their writing.

1200 Creative Writing Prompts

Are you looking for fresh creative writing ideas? Do you want to try writing in new forms and genres?

1200 Creative Writing Prompts is packed with fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction prompts that will inspire and motivate you to write. If you tackle just one prompt per day, this book will provide you with writing ideas for over three years.

Story Drills: Fiction Writing Exercises

Story Drills: Fiction Writing Exercises is packed with lessons and exercises to help you learn the craft of storytelling.

You’ll get practical tools and techniques for story development; study and analyze your favorite stories; gain experience through writing practice; and get questions and worksheets to help you create stories that resonate with readers.

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Services for Writers

Writing Coach

I offer mentoring for bloggers and writers of fiction and creative nonfiction.

Coaching is flexible and tailored to your goals and skill level. Whether you want to develop a novel, structure a manuscript, or write blog posts that will draw readers to your website and keep them there, I can help.

Author Websites

Every author needs a professional website, a place where readers can learn about the author and their works.

I can build a fresh website for you — one that matches your style and tone. From there, I can hand it off to you, or I can continue to manage it for you so you can focus on your writing. I also offer coaching so you can learn how to manage your own website.